Beer producer South African Breweries (SAB) has partnered with Henley Business School Africa to launch the SAB Retailer University, a new business development programme aimed at strengthening small retailers and supporting economic growth in South Africa.
The initiative is designed to equip local retailers with practical business skills, strategic knowledge and leadership training to help them build sustainable and competitive businesses.
The 12-month programme combines structured in-person classes with practical assignments and personalised support. Participants will receive training in key areas such as financial management, operational efficiency, marketing strategies and leadership development.
Henley Business School Africa, which forms part of the University of Reading in the United Kingdom, will oversee the academic design and delivery of the programme. Retailers who complete the course successfully will receive a recognised certificate aligned with higher education standards.
SAB says the programme forms part of its commitment to strengthening South Africa’s small business ecosystem by supporting entrepreneurship, job creation and long-term business growth.
“Retailers are the backbone of South Africa’s beer economy and vital anchors in the communities they serve,” said Zoleka Lisa, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at SAB.
“They create employment, enable local economic participation and contribute to social cohesion. Through Retailer University, SAB is investing directly in the people who power our industry – equipping them with the strategic capability and confidence to grow responsibly and build lasting value,” she said.
The inaugural group includes 30 established retailers from across the country who have been operating for more than 10 years and have demonstrated strong growth potential and community impact.
The country’s largest brewery has covered the cost of the programme, allowing participants to access the training without financial barriers.
According to organisers, the programme aims to strengthen business performance while helping entrepreneurs scale their operations sustainably and create employment opportunities within their communities.
Linda Buckley, Pro-Dean for Teaching and Learning and Student Experience at Henley Business School Africa, said the partnership highlights the importance of developing local businesses.
“We are proud to partner with SAB on an initiative that strengthens the backbone of local economies,” Buckley said.
“By equipping retailers with practical tools, strategic thinking and leadership confidence, we are supporting sustainable businesses that drive economic participation and long-term community impact.”
The first cohort of the SAB Retailer University began their studies in February 2026, with sessions held at the Henley Business School Africa campus in Johannesburg.
SAB said the programme forms part of its broader efforts to support retailers through mentorship, peer networking and structured accountability to ensure businesses achieve measurable growth and long-term sustainability.
